Tag: adu
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Homeowner’s Guide to NYC’s 2025 “City of Yes” ADU Rules
In December 2024, New York City enacted Local Laws 126 and 127 alongside the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity zoning text amendment — a major step toward making ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) possible in one- and two-family homes. These changes open the door for homeowners to safely add new housing in attics, basements, cellars,…
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New Hampshire Joins the ADU Movement – With a Twist
Big news from Concord: New Hampshire has officially passed House Bill 577, making it the last New England state to liberalize Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)… well, sort of. This new law is a fascinating mix of progress and compromise. The legislature didn’t just say “yes” or “no” to ADUs — they went into remarkable detail…
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Unlocking Backyard Potential: The SUPPLY Act and the Future of ADU Financing
What’s the SUPPLY Act? On July 18, 2025, Representatives Sam Liccardo (D‑CA) and Andrew Garbarino (R‑NY) introduced the Supporting Upgraded Property Projects and Lending for Yards (SUPPLY) Act (H.R. 4568). The bipartisan legislation aims to empower homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs)—such as backyard cottages, in-law suites, or garage apartments—by offering a government-backed second mortgage…
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Can Someone Else Submit My ADU Permit for Me? (Yes — And Here’s How It Works)
So, you’ve chosen a Dwelly design and you’re ready to build your Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). Exciting! But then comes the paperwork. Between gathering documents, filling out forms, and submitting everything to your local building department, the permit process can feel a bit… overwhelming. The good news? You don’t have to do it alone. In…
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Navigating Permit Challenges for Your ADU: When Additional Guidance is Needed
Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) can be a fantastic way to add value to your property and create additional living space. However, not all properties fit neatly into local zoning requirements, and some may require additional permit guidance. If your lot is undersized, if your planned ADU is too close to property lines, or…
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Prefab ADUs vs. Custom Builds: Which Option is Best for Rhode Island Homeowners?
As the demand for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) continues to rise in Rhode Island, homeowners are faced with a crucial decision: should they choose prefabricated ADUs or custom builds? Both options come with their unique benefits and challenges, making the debate increasingly relevant for those looking to add value and functionality to their properties. In…
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Understanding Rhode Island’s ADU Legislation: A Homeowner’s Guide
With the growing demand for affordable housing and flexible living options, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have become an increasingly popular solution across the country. In Rhode Island, recent changes to ADU laws have created new opportunities for homeowners to build these secondary living units on their property. However, navigating the specifics of Rhode Island ADU…
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How Massachusetts Homeowners Can Prepare for ADU Construction
Exciting news for homeowners in Massachusetts: with the signing of the Affordable Homes Act into law on August 6, 2024, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are now legal statewide! Starting February 2, 2025, homeowners across the Commonwealth will be able to build ADUs by-right on single-family properties. This change brings significant opportunities for those looking to…
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What Homeowners Need to Know About ADUs in Massachusetts
On August 6, 2024, Governor Maura Healey signed the Affordable Homes Act into law, marking a significant step forward in Massachusetts’ approach to housing. A key highlight of this legislation is the legalization of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) by-right in single-family zoning districts across the state. This means that starting February 2, 2025, homeowners can…
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Across the Boarder: Understanding Accessory Dwelling Units in Connecticut
In Connecticut, state law mandates that all towns and cities must allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs), either by right or through a special permit. However, each municipality has the flexibility to set its own regulations and restrictions regarding ADUs. This means that while some towns fully embrace ADUs, others may impose stricter guidelines—or even not…
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Top Financing Solutions for Accessory Dwelling Units in RI
Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Rhode Island can be a smart investment, offering additional living space, rental income potential, and increased property value. However, one of the biggest challenges homeowners face is financing. In this blog post, we’ll explore various financing options available for ADUs in Rhode Island, including loans, grants, and tax…
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The Ultimate Guide to Building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Rhode Island
As housing costs continue to rise, more homeowners in Rhode Island are turning to accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a smart, flexible solution. ADUs—sometimes called “granny flats” or “in-law suites”—are small, self-contained living spaces that share a lot with a primary residence. They provide an opportunity to add rental income, house extended family members, or…
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How to Build an ADU in Rhode Island – Where to Start Your Accessory Dwelling Unit
Many people wonder where to start when planning their ADU. You need to draw up floor plans, fill out paperwork for permits, secure financing, and make countless decisions. It can be overwhelming, so knowing where to start is crucial. When Kol Peterson, author of the definitive guide to building an ADU, gets this question, his…
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Basement ADUs in Rhode Island: A Comprehensive Guide
Basement ADUs in Rhode Island: A Comprehensive Guide Basement ADUs are an exciting opportunity because they’re one of the most affordable ways to add an accessory dwelling unit to your property. ADUs are a powerful investment, offering the potential to generate passive rental income or provide housing security for your family. In many homes, you’ll…
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What is an ADU? – ADU Definition and Meaning to Rhode Island Homeowners
What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) according to the law in Rhode Island? Let’s break it down into a very simple legal definition and explain how it can dramatically change your cost of living over the next 10 years. And then we’ll explore the different things ADUs can do for you based on that…
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Cumberland, RI ADU Laws
The zoning laws for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Cumberland, Rhode Island, are guided by statewide regulations and specific local requirements. Here is a summary of key points: Number of Units Allowed: Only one ADU is permitted per lot. This applies to owner-occupied properties, lots with a minimum area of 20,000 square feet, or ADUs…
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North Kingston, RI ADU Laws
The Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) zoning laws in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, are designed to regulate the creation and use of ADUs, ensuring they align with local zoning standards and community goals. Here are the key points: Number of Units Allowed: Only one ADU is permitted per lot. This unit can be either attached to…
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South Kingston, RI ADU Laws
Number of Units Allowed: Building Size: Building Height: Setback Requirements: Parking: Owner-Occupancy: Rental Requirements: Additional Requirements:
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East Greenwich, RI ADU Laws
Number of Units Allowed: Building Size: Building Height: Setback Requirements: Parking: Owner-Occupancy: Rental Requirements: Additional Requirements:
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Cranston, RI ADU Laws
The Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) zoning laws in Cranston, Rhode Island, are designed to provide flexibility and support for homeowners seeking to add secondary dwelling units to their properties. Here are the key points regarding ADU regulations: Number of Units Allowed: Typically, one ADU is permitted per single-family lot. ADUs can be either attached or…
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Warwick, RI ADU Laws
In Warwick, Rhode Island, the zoning laws for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) provide clear guidelines on various aspects including the number of units allowed, building size, height, setback requirements, parking, owner-occupancy, and rental restrictions: Number of Units Allowed: A single ADU is allowed on an owner-occupied property. This can be part of the existing structure,…
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East Providence, RI ADU Laws
In East Providence, Rhode Island, the zoning laws for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are structured to facilitate the creation of additional housing options while maintaining neighborhood character. Here is a summary of the key regulations: Number of Units Allowed: Only one ADU is allowed per single-family residential lot. Building Size: The maximum size of an…
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Pawtucket, RI ADU Laws
In Pawtucket, Rhode Island, the zoning laws for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) include several specific regulations: Number of Units: Only one ADU is permitted per property. Building Size: The ADU must be smaller than the main residence. Exact size limits can vary, but generally, the ADU should not exceed 50% of the main house’s size…
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Providence, RI ADU Laws
Providence has updated its ADU ordinance to comply with new state laws. Below are the up-to-date requirements to build an ADU in the city. Last updated July 28, 2024. Zoning All properties zoned for single family, two-family or multifamily may be eligible to build ADUs. Number of units Typically, one ADU is allowed per single-family…
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Building Your Dream ADU in Rhode Island: A Comprehensive Guide
ADU RI has helped hundreds of homeowners in municipalities across the East Coast create ADUs they love. We’ve experienced the ins and outs of the ADU journey – and we’re excited to share what we know with you. Here is the definitive list of resources for homeowners getting started on their ADU project. We hope our…
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Rhode Island Unveils 15-Bill Housing Package, Prioritizes ADUs
Rhode Island Focuses on Housing Crisis with Comprehensive Bill Package Despite previous legislative efforts, Rhode Island continues to grapple with a housing shortage. Aiming to address this critical issue, House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi unveiled a 15-bill housing package during a March 7th press conference. Key Components of the Housing Package: Missing Piece: $100 Million…
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Rhode Island Approves Easier ADU Construction, Sparking Local Control Debate
Rhode Island homeowners may soon face a simpler process for building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on their properties. A bill championed by House Speaker Joe Shekarchi, sponsored by AARP, and recently passed by the Rhode Island House of Representatives, aims to streamline ADU construction in the state. Key Points of the ADU Bill (2023-H 6082Aaa):…
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Rhode Island 2023 ADU Laws: A Guide for Homeowners
Seeking Independent Living with an ADU in Rhode Island? Considering an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to create independent living space on your Rhode Island property? This guide explores the latest 2023 regulations and benefits of ADUs for homeowners. What is an ADU? An ADU, also known as an in-law apartment or granny flat, is a…
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Rhode Island ADUs: Affordable Options for Multigenerational Living and Aging in Place
Improve Accessibility and Affordability with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) Rhode Island boasts a rich history reflected in its housing stock, with many single-family homes reaching back generations. While charming, these older structures often lack features for accessibility, making it difficult for seniors and people with disabilities to age in place comfortably. ADUs: A Solution for…
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What is an ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), also known as a “granny flat,” “in-law suite,” or “secondary suite,” is a self-contained living space that is either attached to or located on the same property as a primary residential unit. ADUs are smaller, secondary living units that typically have their own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping areas. They can…